California Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

What should a phlebotomy technician do if they notice a glass collection tube is cracked during blood specimen collection?

1. Use the tube for collection anyway

2. Dispose of the tube in a sharp container

3. Continue the draw with caution

4. Inform the patient about potential risks

The correct answer is: Dispose of the tube in a sharp container

When a phlebotomy technician observes that a glass collection tube is cracked during blood specimen collection, the correct action is to dispose of the tube in a sharps container. This procedure is essential for maintaining safety and preventing injuries. A cracked tube poses a risk of glass shards, which can lead to lacerations for both the technician and the patient. Additionally, using a compromised tube can lead to contamination of the sample or inadequate collection, jeopardizing the integrity of the specimen. Disposing of the cracked tube in a designated sharps container ensures that any potential hazards associated with broken glass are managed appropriately. This practice safeguards the health and safety of the technician, as well as the patients and other staff members present in the healthcare setting. It emphasizes the importance of adherence to safety protocols in phlebotomy and the necessity of using fully intact equipment for specimen collection.